asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈsper-ə-gəs 

-ˈspa-rə-

plural asparagus

: any of a genus (Asparagus of the family Asparagaceae, the asparagus family) of Old World perennial plants having much-branched stems, minute scalelike leaves, and narrow usually filiform branchlets that function as leaves

especially : one (A. officinalis) widely cultivated for its edible young shoots

Illustration of asparagus

Examples of asparagus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The abalone is plump and toothsome, yet still tender and accompanied by asparagus kissed by the fire. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 16 June 2026

At Minnow in Phoenix, an Arcadia neighborhood favorite consisting of spicy salmon, nopales and asparagus topped with fresh salmon, green onion and furikake. —Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026

The protein on the plate was typically the star — lavished with saucy, seasoned care — while a forgettable side of peas or asparagus was probably a simply steamed or boiled supporting player. —Ellie Krieger, Washington Post, 10 June 2026

Cook, stirring often, until asparagus is tender and cream is clinging to vegetables and pasta, about 5 minutes; remove from heat. —Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Latin, asparagus plant, from Greek asparagos; perhaps akin to Greek spargan to swell

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈspar-ə-gəs 

: a tall branching long-lived herb related to the lilies and widely grown for its thick edible young shoots

Medical Definition

asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈspar-ə-gəs 

1

capitalized : a genus of Old World perennial herbs (family Asparagaceae, the asparagus family) having erect much-branched stems, minute scalelike leaves, and narrow filiform branchlets that function as leaves

2

a

: any plant of the genus Asparagus

especially : a plant (A. officinalis) widely cultivated for its tender edible young shoots

b

: the root of cultivated asparagus formerly used as a diuretic